Student Spotlight – Kristi Diaz

Meet Kristi who is a Pastry Arts student with Escoffier Online International Culinary Academy. We hope you enjoy her story!

Kris D photo1Escoffier: How did your passion for baking begin?
Kristi: My mom used to bake when I was a kid. She was famous for her meringues so that is the first pastry item I learned to do. I would stand over a chair because the table was too tall for me and just watch her work with pastry bags. When she finished she would hand over to me the pastry bag so I could practice. She would make meringues, strawberry pie, brownies and she would create these desserts by improvising.

Escoffier: What is your background?
Kristi: I am Mexican living in Mexico. I worked and lived in Vancouver, Canada in restaurants. I also work in the food industry in Orlando, Florida.

Escoffier: What inspired you to join Escoffier online?
Kristi: I have taken pastry courses at different local schools and I am self-taught by watching YouTube videos and reading pastry books. After gathering knowledge I realized I don’t have the credentials or any document stating my acquired knowledge. After searching for schools in the USA, they were all pricey for internationals students. Aside from school cost I had to add housing, transportation and food costs. Finally I found Escoffier online, perfect choice since I wouldn’t have to worry about the extras and I could study on my free time. I could combine work and studying.

Escoffier: What are your plans once you finish the online pastry program?
Kristi: After I finish the program I would like to find suitable work as a Pastry Chef. My longtime goal is to open a Coffee-Pastry shop where people can gather to chat and enjoy the pastries. I would also like to teach, give free courses for aspiring students or people interested in improving techniques.

Escoffier: What advice would you give to others about the program?
Kristi: My advice for them would be to prepare in any way possible as this industry is constantly evolving. To practice, practice, practice, to improvise recipes so you get something fresh and different.  The advantage about Escoffier Online is that you won’t miss any notes and you can print it all out and keep it as a source. You can take the class as many times as you need to and you get evaluated for your work. You will learn to self-critique your work by redefining your senses.

We thank Kristi for sharing her journey with us! Check out more of our student spotlight stories and student reviews to see why our students chose online training and where they have ended up after completing the online program! If you have a story to share or would like to learn more about our program, please contact us at (877) 452-5489 or [email protected].

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